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Councils are working hard to maintain and improve food safety standards despite the pressure that significant Government funding cuts are placing on everyday services.

Random sampling is just one tool available to councils and a reduction in testing does not mean an increased safety risk to the public.

Targeting high-risk businesses and acting on complaints is a far more effective use of their limited resources and also allows councils to free up responsible businesses from unnecessary inspections and red tape.

It is ultimately the responsibility of food manufacturers, retailers and suppliers to ensure the products they produce or sell comply fully with food law, are fit for consumption and won't risk public safety.

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Some local authorities in London are struggling to ensure businesses comply with food safety rules. A study by consumer watchdog Which? Bexley in south east London is the poorest-performing local authority, with five other London councils in the bottom 10.

Bexley

Ealing

Medway

West Dunbartonshire

Wycombe

Harrow

Richmond-upon-Thames

Southwark

Moyle

Enfield

The research took into account premises such as hospitals, care homes, restaurants, takeaways, retailers and food suppliers.